Extreme weather conditions have been known to cause fatal accidents every year. For those who are not familiar with the drastic changes in weather conditions, they need to be careful because they are not far away from weather-caused truck accidents. So, how does terrible weather conditions cause truck accidents?

As a driver, you’re already aware that serious accidents happen regularly on the road. Several factors cause these accidents, and it is upon you as a driver to make sure that conditions are safe before you drive. However, sometimes you have no choice but to drive in dangerous weather, especially if you have to get to work.

For truck drivers, no matter what the weather, they have to make it to their destinations on time. Companies depend on them to deliver the products we all need, and if they fail, they could lose their jobs. Any of the following weather conditions can cause trucking accidents, and truckers face these risks every day.

Wind Storms

Trucks and semi-trucks seem to be too big and heavy to be tipped over by winds. However, the direction and movement of the wind have a significant impact on the stability of the truck.

If there are high winds that are moving in all directions, the truck has a higher chance of tipping. Big rig roll-overs have resulted from unpredictable winds, and this has caused fatal accidents that have killed truck drivers and other drivers and passengers on the road.

Heavy Rain

Heavy rains have been known to cause serious trucking accidents. During the rainy season, truck drivers’ views are obstructed, and they may not see what is happening on the road, which can lead to road accidents.

Sometimes heavy rains can cause flooding on the road, which makes it difficult for truck drivers to know whether they are on the road or not. This can result in skidding and sliding that can cause an accident

Ice and Snow

Ice and snow are common in the winter season, and this is another period of the year where a significant number of truck accidents happen. Ice and snow make the road slippery, which makes it hard for semi-trucks to move with ease.

The situation gets worse early in the morning or late in the evening. Experts have stated that snow hurts a truck’s traction, and this has an overriding effect on the braking system. This leads to fatal accidents.

Fog

While driving, anything that interferes with clear visibility on the road can lead to serious road accidents. Extreme weather conditions cause fog, which is one of the leading causes of reduced visibility on American roads. Heavy fog has caused a considerable number of truck drivers to veer off the road or across lanes, thereby leading to serious truck accidents.

In foggy weather, truck drivers are required to use their headlights well so that they can protect other road users. Truck drivers should not use their high beams in foggy weather. Low-beam headlights will provide better visibility.

Lightning and Thunderstorms

Lighting and thunderstorms have been known to cause accidents. If drivers panic due to violent thunderstorms and lightning, they are likely to accelerate or slam on their braking systems, which can cause accidents.

Truck drivers who get frightened by lightning and thunderstorms should wait for the violent weather conditions to cease before they continue on their journey whenever it is possible to do so.

If Your Truck Accident Was Caused By Bad Weather

If you are involved in a truck accident that has been caused by bad weather, the chances are that you will experience severe bodily harm and other injuries. In these situations, you need the help of a lawyer.

Whether you are a truck driver or another victim of a trucking accident, if you’ve been hurt it may be the trucking company’s fault. Some of the damages you may be able to pursue include:

• The cost of medical treatment and equipment
• The cost of rehabilitation
• Funeral and burial expenses
• Reimbursement for any property damage
• Reimbursement of lost wages
• Compensation for pain and suffering

(Source: https://www.bergerandgreen.com/pittsburgh-personal-injury-lawyer/)

Most commercial trucks have very complex insurance plans, which means that it will take some time before you get a settlement. However, with the help of an attorney, you will get your compensation quickly so that you can cover your hospital bills and attend to other financial needs.